Visitors to this year’s Clarks Summit Festival of Ice called “The Frozen Frontier” found a warm place to come in from the cold at The Gathering Place where they were greeted by friendly folks serving up hot meals, sweet treats and fun activities. The Abington Lions Club, Clarks Summit Borough, Appalachian Service Project and The Gathering Place committee helped welcome children and adults to the western-themed event hall.

Dozens of kids (and adults) enjoyed “riding” Mister Ed, the world’s friendliest (wooden) horse, during a photo booth event throughout the festival. Youngsters donned cowboy hats and sporting sheriff badges while moms and dads and grandparents captured the scene via cameras, phones and tablets. A great time was had by all, and we can foresee even better times in this space once our renovation is complete.

Highland Associates presented The Gathering Place bid package for approval this past week, so once approved by all parties we will be one step further in our journey to a new home. Keep the good vibes coming our way and we will soon have an inclusive community, art and education center in downtown Clarks Summit.

Upcoming trips

The Abington Area Community Classroom will organize two trips this spring. On Saturday, April 16 we will travel to New York City. Participants can spend the day however they choose. There are 29 seats available at this time, so make a plan and register soon.

The second bus trip to Delaware will take patrons to see the Winterthur and Hagley museums on Saturday, May 14. This bus has only 24 seats and will leave Clarks Summit at 8 a.m. and return by 8 p.m. I’m looking forward to seeing these museums again after 40 years. I’m sure much has changed and improved.

Three Saturday field trips round out our spring schedule. Meet April 30 at Rowlands PA Produce, where they grow hydroponic greens and herbs, to learn about “Eating Healthy All Year Long.” On May 7 participants will “Hit the Trail” with Josh Arp on a walk around Hillside Park to discuss the best plants and trees for the local climate. On May 21 participants will travel to an animal sanctuary, Indraloka, home to 200 animals and 11 species in Mehoopany.

Don’t forget that the AACC Book Club meets every third Tuesday at Everything Natural at 12 p.m. Bring a lunch and enjoy discussion with other book lovers.

Find brochures at the Abington Community Library and other venues in the area, and for further details visit www.GatheringPlaceCS.org. Registration forms can be found on the website or in the brochure. Participants should include an email address with registration.

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Adult Education

Emily Rancier

Emily Rancier is the registrations secretary for the Abington Area Community Classroom. Reach the Abington Journal newsroom at 570-587-1148 or by email at news@s24528.p831.sites.pressdns.com.